Pioneer CT-A1
(1979 > 1983)

Among the top tape recorders in cassette format, the CT-A1 is, unfortunately... rare.
Closed-loop dual capstans, three S&F heads, Pioneer's staple Auto BLE system, high-torque coreless motors, PNP and NPN transistors for the audio stages, a 25dB higher than standard dynamic margin and more - the CT-A1 was a peak.

At 18kg, it also was a load. Most of these features would be carried onto the top deck of the "Communication" series (CT-9R) with large reductions in size, weight and... lavish-ness.

Produced as well but very briefly and outside Japan under the Phase Linear brand (Model 7000 Series Two) which Pioneer had briefly acquired at some point before selling it back to Jensen.
The Model 7000 is an exact replica of the A1 but for the color scheme which is gold, bronze and clear. In one word : shiny and a bit more inviting that the somewhat closed egg the black A1 is.

These images come from the magnificent 8-page japanese may 1979 catalog ; many more from it soon in the TVK v2 interface - stay tuned !
Also soon online will be the Phase Linear version :)

In the meantime, the "more" button below will still detail the engineering inside the CT-A1.

Above is the A1 closed - big black monolith.

Right is the board dedicated to the Auto-BLE functions, centered around the Pioneer PD4005 IC ; other ICs on it are Toshiba (TC401748P) and NEC (D40402C, D4069C, D4081C, D4028C, UPC324C, D5101LC).